PINE BLUFF, Ark. — The murder trial for the man accused of killing a Pine Bluff police officer began this week after having been postponed three times before.
Detective Kevin Collins died while in the line of duty back in October 2020.
Emotions were running high at the Jefferson County Courthouse as community members, family and friends awaited the trial date for nearly four years.
"We've been here three times. And it's been continued three times. So we're excited, if that makes any sense to anybody, that we're finally at this moment," said Dornetta Hobbs, the mother of Detective Collins.
She explained that it was a surreal moment to step into the courtroom on Monday morning after waiting on the trial date since 2020.
Keshone Smith is accused of capital murder for the death of Detective Collins, along with two counts of battery.
The first day of the trial was all about the jury selection, which is a key point to remember.
The trial was previously rescheduled due to the inability to secure a twelve-person jury.
The judge, along with the attorneys, all spent hours on Monday vetting the jurors to make sure it is a fair and impartial trial.
Attorneys asked questions to ensure that they did not previously have relationships with the victim or the defendant.
They also asked if they could effectively put their emotions aside and come up with a verdict that proves beyond a reasonable doubt.
However, throughout this extensive process, Hobbs explained that she'll keep showing her face if that means she can get justice for her son.
"Well, just be patient and know that the justice system is going to work or whatever the verdict is, we'll live with that. And we know that God has to have a say," she added.
Prosecuting Attorney Kyle Hunter said that the death penalty is not being considered in this case.
Day two of the trial at the Jefferson County Courthouse will begin on April 16 at 8:30 a.m.